Drop foot refers to the inability to lift the front part of one’s foot off the ground when walking, resulting in a scuffing or dragging of the foot or lifting the thigh (known as “steppage” gait). It is most often caused by nerve or muscle disorders or damage or by a central nervous system disorder.
This condition is also seen with reasons. Compressive etiologies are the most common cause of peroneal nerve palsies. These occur anywhere along the course of the nerve. Compression of the common peroneal nerve at the level of the fibular head is the most common site of entrapment.
Traumatic injuries are the second most common cause of peroneal nerve palsy. These often occur in association with injuries such as knee dislocations, severe ankle inversions, fractures, blunt trauma, as well as musculoskeletal injuries with nerve traction or direct nerve laceration
Primary and secondary neurologic disorders are other causes of foot drop.
Charcot-Marie-Tooth, a primary peripheral
nerve disorder, is the most commonly inherited peripheral nerve disorder. It affects both sensory and motor nerves.
Patients with long-standing diabetes who suffer from peripheral neuropathy are also at a risk for distal motor neuropathy. In these patients, deterioration of the function of the peroneal nerve can lead to dysfunction of the foot and ankle muscles that it supplies, leading to foot drop
Drop foot is usually diagnosed by physical examination, although additional testing may be recommended. Treatment may include use of braces, physical therapy and electrical nerve stimulation. In some cases, surgery may be required.
We offer a dynamic assist pr 90deg stop brace that is much smaller then the typical AFO and more user friendly without the calf discomfort
Surgery Services we offer
Tendon Transfers: This procedure involves transferring one or more of the flexor or invertor muscles to the dorsum of the foot for dorsiflexion function. The most common procedure involves transferring the posterior tibial tendon.
Ankle fusion: Arthrodesis, is reserved for patients who are not candidates for any of the above-mentioned treatments, or who have failed treatment. This procedure is considered the last resort in foot drop treatment as all motion is removed from the ankle joint.
If you are suffering from a drop foot and looking to be educated about all your treatment options call us.
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